The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has made 105 000 influenza vaccine doses available across the province as part of its annual influenza vaccination programme for the 2026 season, and the Democratic Alliance (DA) on Tuesday urged all eligible residents to take up the opportunity.
Influenza remains a serious seasonal illness capable of leading to severe complications, particularly among vulnerable members of the community, the party said. Vaccination is considered one of the most effective means of reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and influenza-related complications.
Who should be vaccinated
The department has identified the following priority groups:
- Health-care workers;
- People aged 65 years and older;
- Residents of old-age homes and chronic care facilities;
- Adults and children with underlying medical conditions that place them at higher risk of influenza-related complications;
- Pregnant women;
- People living with HIV;
- Other eligible individuals who wish to receive the vaccine.
A comprehensive provincial response
The DA said the programme encompasses guidance for health-care workers, vaccination services at health facilities, public-awareness campaigns, and targeted outreach to vulnerable groups. District-level planning, weekly monitoring of vaccine uptake and social-mobilisation initiatives have been introduced to maximise vaccination coverage across the province.
“The DA commends the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness for its proactive planning and continued commitment to preventative health care. We urge all eligible residents to visit their nearest public health-care facility and enquire about receiving their annual influenza vaccination,” said Memory Booysen, DA provincial spokesperson on health and wellness. “Every vaccination contributes to reducing the burden on the health-care system during the influenza season and helps protect those most vulnerable to serious illness. Residents are encouraged to visit their nearest public healthcare facility to receive their annual influenza vaccination.”
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